The Miami Heat star wore a black carbon-fiber face shield to protect his broken nose during Thursday night's 108-82 victory over the New York Knicks. But the league wants him to switch to a clear version for Saturday night's game against the Orlando Magic.

James likes the feel of the black mask and has filed an appeal in an attempt to continue to wear it, ESPN reported Friday.

Playing with the mask for the first time on Thursday, James did not appear to be bothered by wearing it, scoring 31 points and making 13 of 19 shots from the field.

James had practiced with a clear mask for two days but then opted for the black version before the game.

"It is our understanding LeBron used the black mask because a clear one he was comfortable with wasn't ready," NBA spokesman Tim Frank said.